2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 showcased a sharp and sophisticated appearance, in line with the overarching Audi design language but still retaining its distinctive identity. Its front end was expressive, featuring squinting LED headlights flanking the large Audi Singleframe grille with horizontal elements that highlighted its width. The physique of the Q5 was marked by refined character lines, while the greenhouse resembled a protective shell. It sported bold, large taillights at the rear, creating a classy, modern impression with high-quality fit and finish throughout. The plug-in hybrid version, the Q5 PHEV, boasted additional S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, along with standard 19-inch wheels and optional 20-inch wheels, enhancing its aesthetic appeal even further.

Internally, the Q5 was equally sophisticated and modern. It was packed with technology while maintaining an uncluttered and organized appearance. The layout of buttons, switches, and knobs was intuitive, grouped by function. High-quality materials were used throughout the cabin, with crisp lines where different materials met, and an authentic feel with real wood, metal, and honed surfaces. The 10.1-inch touchscreen was conveniently placed at the top of the center stack, within the driver’s line of sight, and the second row featured standard leather seating surfaces, providing a high level of comfort.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared much of its design with the regular Atlas but differentiated itself with a lower roofline and an aggressively-raked rear hatch. This design gave it a crossover coupe-like vibe often seen in luxury vehicles, though the amalgamation of rugged SUV features with car-like aesthetics was somewhat mixed. Our SEL Premium test vehicle had fake exhaust tips carved into the rear bumper, which appeared tacky.

Dimensionally, the Cross Sport was 5.2 inches shorter and 2.2 inches lower than its seven-seat counterpart while sharing the same 117.3-inch wheelbase. The standard LED exterior lighting included headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights. The trim options varied significantly, with 18-inch alloy wheels for the Atlas S and SE, 20-inch wheels for the SE with Technology, and either 21-inch wheels or sportier styling elements in the R-Line models. The interior design followed VW’s minimalist approach, which was visually appealing and functional. However, the interior materials were subpar, with a combination of rubbery-feeling leather and hard or shiny plastic that seemed cheap and prone to fingerprint smudges. The blend of multiple and predominantly dark colors did not create a particularly inviting ambiance.

The Q5 PHEV enhanced an already enjoyable driving experience provided by the standard Q5 45 gasoline model. The addition of a 14.1-kWh battery, which contributed 114 extra horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque, brought the total combined output to 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup was compatible with the model’s 4,665-lb curb weight. The 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four gasoline engine, paired with an electric motor, offered a seamless boost and smooth transitions during coasting or low-demand driving situations. The Q5 PHEV’s acceleration was impressive, with a 0-60 mph time of just 5.0 seconds and a notable fuel-efficiency rating of 65 MPGe combined. Gasoline-only mode provided 27 mpg combined. The battery recharged overnight with standard household current (Level 1, 120-volt) or in 2.4 hours with Level 2 (240-volt) service.

The seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission and full-time Quattro all-wheel drive provided versatile driving modes, allowing the driver to choose between electric-only, reserve battery power for later use, or automatic hybrid mode. With its speed-sensitive electromechanical power steering and four-wheel independent suspension, handling and ride comfort were well-balanced, with minimal body roll and strong, predictable braking.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its powertrain options with the seven-seat Atlas. The engine choices included a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four and an optional naturally-aspirated 3.6-liter VR6. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission featuring start-stop systems for improved fuel economy.

The turbo-four produced 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the VR6 delivered 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. Our test model, equipped with the VR6 engine and AWD, felt more lively and responsive off the line compared to a four-cylinder Atlas seven-seater previously tested. Despite the VR6’s pleasing sound, its midrange acceleration was lacking, and the transmission was slow to react, although this could be mitigated with manual shifting.

Ride quality was disappointing, as every bump and pothole were distinctly felt, and cabin refinement was lacking, with significant wind and tire noise. While the Cross Sport had a “Sport” tag, it did not deliver a sporty driving experience. The handling felt truck-like with noticeable body roll and loose steering. Towing capacity for VR6 models was 5,000 pounds, while four-cylinder models were limited to 2,000 pounds. AWD models featured Active Control with various drive modes and 8 inches of ground clearance, suitable for light off-roading.

The compact crossover SUV segment, exemplified by the Q5, grew in popularity due to its perfect balance of size and capability. The Q5 PHEV's battery was cleverly placed under the luggage compartment floor, preserving valuable cargo space. This design offered 25.1 cubic feet of space behind the second row and up to 53.1 cubic feet with the second row folded down.

Passenger space was thoughtfully considered, with the second row providing 37.8 inches of legroom, 37.7 inches of headroom, and 56.5 inches of shoulder room. The front row seats were particularly comfortable and supportive, featuring a wide range of adjustments, heating, and ventilation options in the Prestige trim. The interior layout was functional yet stylish, with ample storage options, including a lift-up center-console armrest with a small storage bin.

The Cross Sport capitalized on its considerable footprint, offering competitive interior space among two-row midsize crossovers. Front-seat and rear-seat legroom were top-notch, with the front headroom being above average. However, the rear headroom was limited due to the steeply sloping roofline, reducing clearance for taller passengers.

Cargo capacity was a strong suit, with 40.3 cubic feet available with the rear seats up and 77.8 cubic feet with them folded down, surpassing most rivals but falling short of the Honda Passport. The second-row seats had a 60/40 split-fold and a 14-degree backrest recline. Higher trims like SE with Technology added convenience features such as a foot-activated tailgate.

Storage solutions included multiple cargo nets, cupholders, and bins, a sizable center console, and a second-row armrest with integrated cupholders. An angled cubbyhole in front of the shifter housed charging ports and was spacious enough for most phones.

The Q5 PHEV incorporated Audi’s latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, acclaimed for its user-friendliness. Complementing this was the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus, a 12.3-inch high-definition instrument cluster with three viewing modes—classic, sport, and dynamic. This setup, coupled with color/mood-adjustable LED ambient lighting, allowed for a high degree of personalization.

The Prestige Package included a Navigation Package, which worked in tandem with the hybrid system to optimize fuel and battery usage. A new Integrated Toll Module offered a built-in transponder compatible with most U.S. toll services, eliminating the need for external devices.

Additionally, a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system featuring 19 speakers and a 16-channel, 755-watt amplifier was available on Premium Plus models and standard on the Prestige trim. The Q5 also offered wireless Apple CarPlay as a practical feature.

The Cross Sport came with two infotainment system options. The base S trim featured the older MIB2 system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims received the updated MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen.

Both systems provided USB-C ports, pinch-to-zoom functionality, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. MIB3 added multiple-device pairing and improved voice recognition, though it wasn’t a significant upgrade in usability. Higher trims added extra USB ports, SiriusXM, and the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. The SEL Premium had a 12-speaker Fender audio system.

Our test vehicle's MIB3 system was slow to load, and the Fender audio system underwhelmed. The Digital Cockpit was a notable highlight, offering configurable display options. Analog controls were retained for basic functions, which would appeal to those less enthusiastic about touchscreen interfaces.

The 2020 gasoline model of the Q5 received “good” ratings from the IIHS in most categories and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the 2021 PHEV was not yet rated by either organization. Its safety features included six airbags, anti-lock brakes, Audi Pre Sense basic, low-speed collision assist, and a host of other standard features.

Optional driver-assistance features encompassed Audi Advanced Key, Audi Pre Sense rear, Audi Side Assist, adaptive cruise control with traffic-jam assist, and a top-view camera system, among others.

The Cross Sport earned top “Good” scores in IIHS crash tests but received mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA gave it a five-star overall rating, with high marks for side crash tests and slightly lower scores for frontal and rollover crashes. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features expanded to adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and parking sensors.

Unique to VW, the Cross Sport featured an Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System. New for 2021 were Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, which offered additional layers of safety by managing lane centering and slowing the vehicle in case of driver incapacitation.